Andrew Zimmern's Money-Saving Grocery Shopping Advice Is Lowkey Genius

Getting deals on produce

A stroll through the produce section at stores like Walmart yields an abundance of vegetables that are mostly uniform in size and color. In other words, all the peppers appear quite similar. The same goes for apples, oranges, cucumbers, pears, and other items in these aisles.

In contrast, when you visit an Asian, Mexican, or Indian grocery store, you’re likely to encounter fruits and vegetables that seem like they belong in a Misfits Market box. They not only vary in size but may also appear oddly shaped and a bit quirky. This is likely one of the main reasons Andrew Zimmern finds such great deals on produce at the Mexican or Asian markets in his area. While they may look unconventional before being chopped, they taste just as good once prepared, making the trade-off worthwhile.

On the plus side, many of these stores offer a wide range of varieties for the same type of produce. For instance, if you enjoy a hearty mushroom soup during the winter, you’ll probably discover brown, white, portobello, oyster, enoki, shiitake mushrooms, and more to enhance your dish. This variety allows you to broaden the flavor profiles of your recipes in ways you might not have considered before.

Snacks and desserts for when the munchies strike

Hunting for bargains, such as 20 to 25 bananas for just $0.99, isn't the sole reason to navigate the aisles of these stores. While you might occasionally spot bags of Doritos at your typical Mexican or Asian market, you'll also discover a variety of unique snacks, often at more affordable prices. Some of these items may feature alternative flavors of your favorite brands that are rarely found in most U.S. grocery stores, but are more common in shops overseas (and sometimes even further afield). These products may not reach American store shelves at all, or if they do, they are often in limited supply. Think of Asian rice crackers, wasabi-flavored peas, and other savory snacks.

On the flip side, if you have a penchant for sweets, it's hard to surpass the selection (and prices) at local Korean markets. You'll come across treats like twisted pie nummies, red bean rolls, and honey cheese mochi pancakes, among others. However, it's not just Korean stores that offer a bounty of sweet delights — similar Mexican and Indian shops typically feature aisles dedicated to satisfying your sweet cravings.

Spicing up your meals

Any chef who knows their craft understands the importance of salt, along with a variety of other spices. These specialty stores not only carry seasonings tailored to specific cuisines—such as Asian, Indian, or Mexican—but they also offer them at significant discounts. For instance, a 1-ounce container of McCormick spices from the supermarket pales in comparison to the value of a 10-ounce box available at an Asian or Indian market. Often, the larger container is cheaper than the name brand and provides ten times the quantity. You'll discover similar savings in the condiment aisles as well. The wide range of options available can help you incorporate new flavors into your cooking without overspending.

These budget-friendly deals on spices are not anomalies. According to ConsumerAffairs, it's common to find items like curry leaves for just $0.99 per pack, while the same items can cost between $6 and $11 at a regular grocery store. Shoppers at these smaller, family-owned markets can save up to 75% on their spices, as reported by TipHero.

Getting control of your protein budget

Andrew Zimmern doesn't limit his bargain hunting to the produce section. In an interview with The Kitchn, he shared that he turns to his local Mexican market to score deals on meats like skirt steak for under $12. This cut is essential for popular dishes such as fajitas and beef tacos, yet it can be hard to find in regular supermarkets. Fortunately, the prices for meat at Indian, Asian, or Mexican markets are often nearly half of what you'd pay at conventional stores. Plus, customers frequently have the option to request specific cuts of meat in their desired sizes.

These food-filled havens provide great deals on a range of plant-based meats and products like tofu, making it easier for all types of eaters to save on protein. While faux chicken remains a favorite, shopping at the celebrity chef's preferred stores allows you to broaden your culinary horizons. In these aisles, you can discover plant-based proteins that mimic the flavors of duck or fish, alongside chicken-flavored options. In summary, shopping at these local markets lets you indulge your taste buds without breaking the bank.